What are the various methods of contraception in sexual reproduction?

Contraception methods in sexual reproduction include barrier methods, hormonal methods, intrauterine devices, emergency contraception, and sterilisation.

Barrier methods of contraception work by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. These include male and female condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. Male condoms are worn on the penis during sex and catch the sperm, preventing it from entering the vagina. Female condoms are inserted into the vagina before sex and work in a similar way. Diaphragms and cervical caps are also inserted into the vagina and cover the cervix, blocking sperm from entering the uterus.

Hormonal methods of contraception involve the use of hormones to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to block sperm, or thin the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation. These methods include birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, and implants. Birth control pills and patches release hormones into the body that prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. Injections and implants work in a similar way but are longer-lasting. Vaginal rings release hormones that prevent ovulation and also thicken cervical mucus.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Copper IUDs release copper into the uterus, which is toxic to sperm. Hormonal IUDs release progestin, a hormone that thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and thins the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation.

Emergency contraception is used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. This includes the morning-after pill and copper IUDs. The morning-after pill contains a high dose of hormones that prevent or delay ovulation or prevent fertilisation. Copper IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within five days of unprotected sex.

Sterilisation is a permanent method of contraception that involves surgical procedures to prevent pregnancy. In men, this is called a vasectomy and involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm. In women, it's called tubal ligation and involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus.